Which fort in Rajasthan is popularly known as the “Golden Fort” because of its yellow sandstone appearance?

Introduction / Context:
This question tests your knowledge of Indian heritage sites, particularly the famous forts of Rajasthan. Many forts in Rajasthan are UNESCO World Heritage Sites and have unique architectural and visual identities. The “Golden Fort” is a nickname associated with one specific fort due to its golden-yellow colour, which results from the sandstone used in its construction.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• The question asks which fort is also called the “Golden Fort”.
• The options are Chittorgarh, Kumbhalgarh, Ranthambore, and Jaisalmer Fort.
• We assume the nickname refers to the fort’s distinctive golden appearance in sunlight.
• No numerical calculations are required; this is an identification question.

Concept / Approach:
Jaisalmer Fort, located in the city of Jaisalmer in Rajasthan, is famously known as the “Sonar Quila” or “Golden Fort.” Built from yellow sandstone, it appears golden in the daytime and glows in the sunlight, which gives it this popular name. The other forts listed are also important but do not share this specific nickname.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Step 1: Recall which fort is called “Sonar Quila” or “Golden Fort.” This is Jaisalmer Fort. Step 2: Confirm that Jaisalmer Fort is built with yellow sandstone and stands on Trikuta Hill, giving it a distinctive golden look. Step 3: Recognise that Chittorgarh, Kumbhalgarh, and Ranthambore are famous for other historical reasons but are not commonly called Golden Fort. Step 4: Choose Jaisalmer Fort as the correct answer.
Verification / Alternative check:
You can verify by recalling that filmmaker Satyajit Ray used the Sonar Quila (Golden Fort) in one of his famous films, further popularising the nickname. Tourism brochures and photographs of the fort often highlight its golden glow at sunrise and sunset, reinforcing the identity of Jaisalmer Fort as the Golden Fort of Rajasthan.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

• Chittorgarh Fort: Known for its heroic history, towers, and sieges, not specifically for a golden appearance.
• Kumbhalgarh Fort: Famous for its long walls and strategic location, but not nicknamed Golden Fort.
• Ranthambore Fort: Associated with the Ranthambore Tiger Reserve and historical battles, but not with the golden colour.

Common Pitfalls:
A frequent error is to confuse the many forts of Rajasthan and pick one based only on its fame rather than the specific nickname. The key is to remember the link between Jaisalmer’s yellow sandstone architecture and the Golden Fort title. Associating the city of Jaisalmer with golden sand and golden fortifications helps prevent confusion.

Final Answer:
The fort popularly known as the “Golden Fort” is Jaisalmer Fort in Rajasthan.